Living In The Light

November 17, Live Peaceably

If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.
—Romans 12:18 LL 338.1

A duty is here enjoined upon us. We are to strive to live at peace with all people. Every care should be taken on the part of Christians to give no offense that the truth be not evil spoken of. But the text suggests that no amount of diligence and care will preserve this harmony in all cases. Dissensions will arise even between individual members of the Church, because they are not Christ like in character. LL 338.2

But there will be a point where members must be separated from its fellowship because of their unchristian course of action. In the home they are oppressive and a reproach to the cause of Christ. Their practices are inconsistent with truth and religion, and to retain them in church fellowship would be faithless to the Master. LL 338.3

The church, as a body is to do all in its power to promote union and prevent schisms. This rule is designed to guide every individual member in his treatment of others. If unsound doctrine is introduced, it will endanger the flock of Christ. It is the duty of those in authority, who are jealous for the truth as it is in Jesus, to make a firm, decided protest. This expression of rebuke will often be used to create sympathy for the reproved. The harm that is thus done to precious souls and to Christ’s kingdom is not considered. At this crisis is the time to decide who are God’s faithful sentinels, who will be true to principle, who will bear in mind that truth is too dearly purchased for its least principle to be surrendered. LL 338.4

That peace and harmony is not worthy of the name which is secured by mutual concessions to avoid all differences of opinion. On points of feeling between persons, concessions would sometimes be made, but never should one iota of principle be sacrificed in order to obtain harmony. All our words and actions pass in review before God, and if we wish to stand in the judgment as having done all that we could to have a correct influence over our fellow human beings, we must repay kind acts for acts of mischief and malice. Christ is our Pattern; He would have us follow Him.—Manuscript 23b, 1896. LL 338.5

Further Reflection: How can a church as diverse as the Seventh-day Adventist Church promote peace and unity among its members worldwide? LL 338.6